Have you ever wondered what happens to self-driving taxis when the world is asleep? A software engineer, Sophia Tung, has been livestreaming a San Francisco parking lot rented by Waymo to give its robotaxis somewhere to go during their downtime. The livestream, complete with LoFi study beats, offers a glimpse into the mysterious world of autonomous vehicles at rest.
Behind the Scenes
Tung set up the livestream using a mini PC and a webcam surrounded by a cereal box to reduce glare. The cameras capture the daily activities of Waymo cars in the parking lot, providing viewers with a unique perspective on the technology that powers self-driving taxis.
The Waymo Experience
Waymo recently opened up its robotaxi service to anyone in San Francisco, allowing people to experience the future of transportation firsthand. The livestream offers a sneak peek into the inner workings of Waymo’s operations, showcasing the efficiency and sophistication of autonomous vehicles in action.
As the night progresses, the parking lot transforms into a bustling hub of activity, with Waymo cars engaging in what appears to be a maddening ballet of autonomous parking and occasional honking. The noise level peaks in the early hours of the morning before settling down, providing a fascinating glimpse into the challenges of managing a fleet of self-driving vehicles.
Waymo is aware of the occasional honking issue in their parking lots and is actively working to address it. According to company representative Chris Bonelli, Waymo has identified the cause of the behavior and is taking steps to ensure a smoother and quieter experience for both the vehicles and the surrounding environment.
The livestream of Waymo’s self-driving taxis offers a unique and captivating look into the world of autonomous vehicles. Through Sophia Tung’s innovative setup, viewers can witness the daily routines and challenges faced by Waymo cars during their downtime. As technology continues to advance, insights like these provide valuable information on the future of transportation and the role of autonomous vehicles in shaping it.
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